CES: New 2012 Smart VIERA lineup And 20-inch 4K2K LCD panel by Panasonic
Panasonic presents its latest digital AV products,
including 2012 Smart VIERA lineup with newly added 47-
and 55-inch LCD TVs as well as a prototype of the
newly developed 4K2K IPS Alpha LCD panel.
Panasonic has developed a 20-inch 4K2K (3,840 x 2,160
resolution, approx. 8.29million pixels) IPS Alpha LCD
panel, the smallest as a 4K2K-resolution display. The
new panel has the world's highest pixel density of 216
pixels per inch (ppi) and the thickness of only 3.5
mm.
According to Panasonic, IPS Alpha panels are suitable for making ultra-high definition displays because of their simple pixel structure - one of the characteristics of the IPS panels- as well as their high contrast ratio, excellent color reproducibility with rich gradation and the industry's highest-level light transmission rate that were implemented by Panasonic's IPS-Pro technology.
The 4K2K IPS Alpha LCD panel employs two new technologies, "Pixel structure with ultra-high aperture ration structure" and "New liquid-crystal molecular orientation process technology".
Pixel structure with ultra-high aperture ratio Panasonic has developed a new pixel structure that significantly reduces the effects of the electric field that are generated due to the increase in pixel density, and improves IPS Alpha panel's light transmission rate approximately twice as much as the panels having the conventional structures.
The orientation performance of the liquid crystals in a plane parallel to the TFT (Thin Film Transistor) substrate is further improved.
Specifications
Screen size: 20.4 inches
Number of pixels: 8.29 million (3,840 x 2,160)
Thickness: 3.5 mm
Brilliance: 450 cd/m2
Color reproducibility: 70%
Smart VIERA
Panasonic also introduced Smart VIERA, a new and expanded application of VIERA Connect. The platform is further enhanced with the implementation of a cloud based service, providing online movies, sports and new apps in categories such as games, kids and health & fitness. The new Smart VIERA HDTVs also provide access to the VIERA Connect Market. To promote further growth in VIERA Connect apps, Panasonic established the VIERA Connect Developers site.
Networking allows access to content both inside and outside the house and to that end a new graphic user's interface (GUI) was developed. The GUI and all the apps in VIERA Connect are supported by a cloud based service, ensuring that the user always has the most up-to-date versions. A sidebar on the screen displays the wall and timeline for these Social Media sites, so viewers can directly write in SSN comments and tweets while simultaneously watching TV. Smart VIERA's networking function also makes it possible to freely access content from virtually anywhere in the home. A home network can be made with Smart VIERA and other DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) compliant devices.
Media Player lets one insert an SD Memory Card from a digital camera directly into the TV's SD card slot for playback. The Smart VIERA HDTVs feature built-in that makes it easy to connect to the internet. In addition, Panasonic developed a new VIERA Touch Pad Controller (included with the VT50 and WT50 series) for easy web browsing and a newly developed application called VIERA remote App allows an iPhone, iPad or Android Smartphone to be used as a remote control. Also, select 2012 VIERA HDTVs (VT50, GT50, WT50) support multitasking, which makes it possible to open several web pages simultaneously and freely switch between them.
2012 LED/LCD Model Line Up
Panasonic's 2012 Smart VIERA line-up of LED LCD HDTVs focuses on larger screen sizes and LED based HDTVs, with 14 of the 16 models incorporating LED technology. Panasonic also added 47 inch and 55 inch screen sizes to its LED/LCD family and its 3D line up.
The 2012 line-up is based on the company's IPS LED LCD Panel (In Plane Switching) technology.
VIERA Connect, Panasonic?s proprietary internet functionality is integrated into 12 of the new models with a new platform that provides access to such sits as Amazon Instant Video, Netflix, Pandora , Facebook, CinemaNow, VUDU, Hulu Plus, Skype, Ustream, sports sites ? MLB, NHL, NBA, MLS2, Fox Sports, gaming and health and wellness sites.
WT50 Series
WT50 LED series marks the debut of the two new, larger screen sizes, the TC-L47WT50, 47 inch class (47 inches measured diagonally) and the TC-L55WT50, 55 inch class (54.5 inches measured diagonally). The WT50 HDTVs feature the FULL HD 3D, IPS LED LCD Panel; Super High Speed 1920 Backlight Scanning for higher moving picture resolution during fast action scenes, and a smoothimage; 1080p resolution; VIERA Connect with built-in WiFi and Web Browser; a new Clear Panel Pro and Super-Narrow Metal Frame with Crescent Stand; 2D → 3D conversion; Social Networking TV function to allow users to access social network sites while simultaneously watching TV; Multitasking feature to switch between apps ; 3D Real Sound with 8-Train Speakers; Media Player, allows one to view digital images and HD video recorded on a SD Memory Card; DLNA; VIERA Touch Pad Controller; four HDMI terminals and three USB ports.
DT50 Series
The DT50 series, which provides Smart TV experience, includes two models, the TC-L47DT50, 47 inch class (47 inches measured diagonally) and the TC-L55DT50, 55 inch class (54.5 inches measured diagonally). Featuring the FULL HD 3D, IPS LED LCD Panel: Super High Speed 1920 Backlight Scanning for higher moving picture resolution during fast action scenes, the DT50 series includes VIERA Connect with built-in WiFi and Web Browser; a new Narrow Metal Frame; 1080p resolution; 2D → 3D conversion; Social Networking TV function; 3D Real Sound with 8-Train Speakers; Media Player; DLNA; four HDMI terminals; three USB ports.
ET5 Series
The three models that comprise the ET5 series feature FULL HD polarized 3D, IPS LED LCD Panel. The TC-L42ET5, 42 inch class (42 inches measured diagonally), TC-L47ET5, 47 inch class (47 inches measured diagonally); and TC-L55ET5, 55 inch class (54.6 inches measured diagonally) incorporate the IPS LED panel, 360 Backlight Scanning; VIERA Connect with built-in WiFi and Web Browser; 2D → 3D conversion; Social Networking TV function Media Player; DLNA; four HDMI and two USB terminals; a PC input. Furthermore, each of the ET5s comes with 4 pairs of polarized 3D glasses.
E50 Series
The E50 series features the IPS LED LCD Panel, a slim design and is available in three screen sizes, TC-L42E50, 42 inch class (42 inches measured diagonally); TC-L47E50, 47 inch class (47 inches measured diagonally); TC-L55E50, 55 inch class (54.6 inches measured diagonally). Featuring 360 Backlight Scanning; 1080p resolution; VIERA Connect; Social Networking TV function; DLNA; a PC input; four HDMI terminals; two USB ports.
E5 Series
The four LED HDTVs in the E5 series include the IPS LED LCD Panel, feature 1080p resolution; Online Movies a service that provides select Panasonic's IPTV functionality by adding five of the most popular movies to the TV's internet functionality; DLNA; four HDMI terminals; two USB ports and a PC input. The TC-L32E5, 32 inch class (31.5 inches measured diagonally), TC-L37E5, 37 inch class (36.5 inches measured diagonally), TC-L42E5 inches class (42 inches measured diagonally) and TC-L47E5 inches class (47 inches measured diagonally) are ready and both are Energy Star certified.
X5 Series
The TC-L32X5, 32 inch class (31.5 inches measured diagonally) is a720p IPS LED LCD Panel. The TV features Media Player; three HDMI terminals; one USB port and a PC input. The X5 series also offers the TC-L24X5, 1080p LED LCD Panel, 24 inch class (23.6 inches measured diagonally) featuring one HDMI terminal; one USB, a PC input and Game Mode.
U5 Series
The TC-L42U5, 42 inch class (42 inches measured diagonally) is one of two LCD HDTVs (cold cathode backlighting) in the 2012 collection. The TV is a 1080p model with three HDMI terminals; one USB port, a PC input and Game Mode.
C5 Series
The TC-L32C5, 32 inch class (31.5 inches measured diagonally) is a 720p, LCD HDTV (cold cathode backlighting) with two HDMI terminals; one USB port, a PC Input and Game Mode.
2012 SMART VIERA PLASMA HDTV Line-up
Continuing its history and tradition of producing Plasma HDTVs, Panasonic introduced the company's 2012 Smart VIERA line of HDTV Plasmas at the Consumer Electronics Show. The company wil loffer 17 new models, ranging in screen sizes from 42-inches to 65 inches.
New to select VIERA TVs is the inclusion of a browser as well as the addition of "3D Real Sound" with 8-Train Speakers to further enhance sound quality. Panasonic also introduced its latest generation of lightweight 3D glasses. Weighing only 27grams, the latest generation 3D glasses utilize Bluetooth technology and feature a rechargeable battery.
The 2012 VIERA HDTVs produce black levels that have consistently been recognized as among the best in the industry, super fast response time, internet apps, a new VIERA?s, clean and simple design.
The 2012 models employ NeoPlasma Black 2500 provide a crisp image even when the content shows very fast motion. The 2012 panel further reduces reflections and creates sharper pictures with higher contrast in brighter environments. In addition, a new panel structure and pre-discharge control technology contribute to an increased native contrast level. Additionally, all the 3D models include DLNA connections.
Panasonic?s Plasma Display panel feature a 100,000 hour life span.
The six VIERA Plasma series, VT50, GT50, ST50, UT50, XT50, U50, feature self illuminating panels with ultimate black levels, NeoPlasma echnologies (VT/GT/ST) providing a black filter with a higher efficiency panel that generates the best balance of black and white under brighter environments. The new Louver filter and new high performance panel result in improved external light shading, improved clarity and improved light transmittance. The 2012 models employ the NeoPlasma Black 2500 (VT/GT/ST/UT), a 6,220,800 pixel cells FULL local dimming, 24,576 steps of gradation technology (VT/GT) (previously only available in professional monitors), a new custom driver LSI and a fast switching phosphor panel on all of Panasonic?s 1080p 3D models.
Panasonic also continues its relationship with THX with six Full HD 3D Plasma HDTVs, certified in both 2D and 3D mode by the company founded by George Lucas.
VT50 Series
The VT50 series is the FULL HD 3D Plasma flagship series and is available in two screen sizes- the TC-P65VT50, 65-inch class (64.7 inches measured diagonally) and the TC-P55VT50, 55-inch class (55.1 inches measured diagonally). These two top of the line TVs offers FULL HD 3D; 1080p FULL HD resolution; Infinite Black Ultra Panel, Deep Black hues are achieved thanks to new and advanced pre-discharge technology; VIERA Connect with Web browser, and built-in Wi-Fi; 2500 FFD (Focused Field Drive); Fast Switching Phosphors; 2D → 3D conversion; 24,576 steps of gradation technology ;THX in both 2D and 3D modes; ISFccc Calibration Mode with Advanced Calibration. Calibrators adjust the detailed picture setting with the calibration software (CALMAN )provided by SpectraCal Inc.
Social Networking TV function to allow users to access social network sites while simultaneously watching TV; Multitasking feature to switch between apps ; 3D Real Sound with 8-Train Speakers; a new Louver Filter; a VIERA Touch Pad Controller; Bluetooth; DLNA; VIERA Link, a technology that utilizes HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) and allows a consumer to operate all VIERA Link compatible A/V components using only the TV?s remote control; Media Player, allows one to view digital photos and HD video recorded on a SD Memory Card and USB Memory Stick; four HDMI connections and three USB ports.
GT50 Series
The GT50 series includes four screen sizes ? the TC-P50GT50, 50-inch class (49.9 inches measured diagonally); TC-P55GT50, 55-inch class (55.1 inches measured diagonally); TC-P60GT50, 60-inch class (60.1 inches measured diagonally); TC-P65GT50, 65-inch class (64.7 inches measured diagonally). The series features FULL HD 3D; Infinite Black Pro Panel; VIERA Connect with Web browser and built-in Wi-Fi; 1080p FULL HD resolution; 2500 FFD (Focused Field Drive); Fast Switching Phosphors; 2D → 3D conversion; THX in both the 2D and 3D modes; 24,576 steps of gradation technology; Social Networking TV function; Multitasking; 3D Real Sound with 8 train speakers; Media Player; Bluetooth; DLNA; VIERA Link; four HDMI connections and three USB ports.
ST50 Series
The TC-P50ST50, 50-inch class (49.9 inches measured diagonally); the TC-P55ST50, 55-inch class (55.1 inches measured diagonally); the TC-P60ST30, 60-inch class (60.1 inches measured diagonally) and the TC-P65ST50, 65 inch class (64.7 inches measured diagonally) comprise the ST 50 series of FULL HD 3D VIERA HDTVs. The ST30 models include Infinite Black Pro Panel; VIERA Connect with Web browser and built-in Wi-Fi; 1080p FULL HD resolution; 2500 FFD (Focused Field Drive); Fast Switching Phosphors; 2D → 3D conversion; Social Networking TV function; 3D Real Sound with 8-Train Speakers; Media Player; Bluetooth; DLNA; VIERA Link, three HDMI connections and two USB ports.
UT50 Series
There are four screen sizes in the UT50 series ? the TC-P42UT50, 42 inch class (41.6 inches measured diagonally); TC-P50UT50, 50 inch class (49.9 inches measured diagonally); TC-P55UT50, 55 inch class (55.1 inches measured diagonally); TC-P60UT50, 60 inch class (60.1 inches measured diagonally). All offer FULL HD 3D; 1080p FULL HD resolution; VIERA Connect (Wi-Fi ready); 2500 FFD (Focused Field Drive); Fast Switching Phosphors; 2D → 3D conversion; Social Networking TV function; Media Player; Bluetooth; DLNA; VIERA Link; two HDMI connections and two USB ports.
XT50 Series
The XT50 series is an affordable 3D solution with Online Movies feature, a service that provides select Panasonic's IPTV functionality by adding five of the most popular movies to the TV's internet functionality. The TC-P42XT50, 42 inch class (41.6 inches measured diagonally) and the TC-P50XT50, 50 inch class (49.9 inches measured diagonally) produce 720p resolution and features Online Movies, a service that provides select Panasonic's IPTV functionality by adding five of the most popular movies to the TV's internet functionality; 2D → 3D conversion; 600Hz Sub-field Drive; Bluetooth; Media Player; DLNA; VIERA Link; two HDMI and two USB connections.
U50 Series
The TC-P50U50, 50 inch class (49.9 inches measured diagonally) is the lone non-3D in this year's HDTV Plasma model line-up. The model features 1080p FULL HD resolution; Fast Switching Phosphors, Media Player; 600Hz Sub-Field Drive ;Game Mode ;two HDMI connections and one USB port.
2012 Blu-ray Disc Player Line-up
Panasonic expanded its Blu-ray Disc player lineup with four new Full HD 3D models ? the DMP-BBT01, DMP-BDT500, DMP-BDT320, DMP-BDT220, and two 2D Blu-ray Disc players ? DMP-BD87 and the DMP-BD77. All four of the 3D models include Panasonic's proprietary IPTV platform, VIERA Connect, while the 2D models feature IP VOD, a service that offers a selection of such sites as Netflix, Vudu, CinemaNow and YouTube.
The Full HD 3D Blu-ray Disc players ? BBT01; BDT500, BDT320 and BDT 220 feature an improved UniPhier chip processor, 24p output for VOD, an expanded VIERA Connect functionality, and FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec),192kHz/32bit Audio DAC (not available on the DMP-BBT01), Smartphone remote control capability, a new touchpad remote control - available on DMP-BBT01, DMP-BDT500, DMP-BDT320 - 2D-to-3D up-conversion, which can convert 2D images from VIERA Connect, DVDs and Blu-ray discs into 3D with natural depth perception, a new slim design and a unique slot-in drive that is found in two of the models- the DMP-BBT01 and the DMP-BDT320. In addition, the DMP-BBT01 introduces a new design concept - the player comes with a stand and can be operated either vertically, or horizontally.
The DMP-BDT500, DMP-BDT320 and the DMP-BDT220 utilize a 192kHz/32bit audio DAC, while the BDT500 includes high grade audio parts ? gold plated terminals, high grade electric capacitor, insulator - to reproduce audio content that is faithful to the original. The BDT500 provides for 7.1 channel output and includes twin HDMI outputs, allowing one to be dedicated for audio output. Audio is further improved via Panasonic?s clock control technology that reduces jitter during HDMI transmission, thereby lessening noise and delivering pure sound. Furthermore, the 2012 players are compatible with a variety of formats such as the lossless audio codec FLAC, an audio format similar to MP3, but lossless, meaning that audio is compressed in FLAC without any loss in quality. In addition, the Blu-ray Disc players simulate the warm, comforting sound of tube amplifiers with six distinct sound environments.
The entire 2012 line features DLNA for easy connection to other DLNA equipped products, VIERA Link - provides connectivity to other VIERA Link compatible products and NAS compatibility. This year's players are also compatible with the NTFS format HDD. Five of the six Blu-ray Disc players provide built-in WiFi, while the DMP-BD77 is wireless ready. Also new this year is the ability to use any Smartphone as the remote control.
According to Panasonic, IPS Alpha panels are suitable for making ultra-high definition displays because of their simple pixel structure - one of the characteristics of the IPS panels- as well as their high contrast ratio, excellent color reproducibility with rich gradation and the industry's highest-level light transmission rate that were implemented by Panasonic's IPS-Pro technology.
The 4K2K IPS Alpha LCD panel employs two new technologies, "Pixel structure with ultra-high aperture ration structure" and "New liquid-crystal molecular orientation process technology".
Pixel structure with ultra-high aperture ratio Panasonic has developed a new pixel structure that significantly reduces the effects of the electric field that are generated due to the increase in pixel density, and improves IPS Alpha panel's light transmission rate approximately twice as much as the panels having the conventional structures.
The orientation performance of the liquid crystals in a plane parallel to the TFT (Thin Film Transistor) substrate is further improved.
Specifications
Screen size: 20.4 inches
Number of pixels: 8.29 million (3,840 x 2,160)
Thickness: 3.5 mm
Brilliance: 450 cd/m2
Color reproducibility: 70%
Smart VIERA
Panasonic also introduced Smart VIERA, a new and expanded application of VIERA Connect. The platform is further enhanced with the implementation of a cloud based service, providing online movies, sports and new apps in categories such as games, kids and health & fitness. The new Smart VIERA HDTVs also provide access to the VIERA Connect Market. To promote further growth in VIERA Connect apps, Panasonic established the VIERA Connect Developers site.
Networking allows access to content both inside and outside the house and to that end a new graphic user's interface (GUI) was developed. The GUI and all the apps in VIERA Connect are supported by a cloud based service, ensuring that the user always has the most up-to-date versions. A sidebar on the screen displays the wall and timeline for these Social Media sites, so viewers can directly write in SSN comments and tweets while simultaneously watching TV. Smart VIERA's networking function also makes it possible to freely access content from virtually anywhere in the home. A home network can be made with Smart VIERA and other DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) compliant devices.
Media Player lets one insert an SD Memory Card from a digital camera directly into the TV's SD card slot for playback. The Smart VIERA HDTVs feature built-in that makes it easy to connect to the internet. In addition, Panasonic developed a new VIERA Touch Pad Controller (included with the VT50 and WT50 series) for easy web browsing and a newly developed application called VIERA remote App allows an iPhone, iPad or Android Smartphone to be used as a remote control. Also, select 2012 VIERA HDTVs (VT50, GT50, WT50) support multitasking, which makes it possible to open several web pages simultaneously and freely switch between them.
2012 LED/LCD Model Line Up
Panasonic's 2012 Smart VIERA line-up of LED LCD HDTVs focuses on larger screen sizes and LED based HDTVs, with 14 of the 16 models incorporating LED technology. Panasonic also added 47 inch and 55 inch screen sizes to its LED/LCD family and its 3D line up.
The 2012 line-up is based on the company's IPS LED LCD Panel (In Plane Switching) technology.
VIERA Connect, Panasonic?s proprietary internet functionality is integrated into 12 of the new models with a new platform that provides access to such sits as Amazon Instant Video, Netflix, Pandora , Facebook, CinemaNow, VUDU, Hulu Plus, Skype, Ustream, sports sites ? MLB, NHL, NBA, MLS2, Fox Sports, gaming and health and wellness sites.
WT50 Series
WT50 LED series marks the debut of the two new, larger screen sizes, the TC-L47WT50, 47 inch class (47 inches measured diagonally) and the TC-L55WT50, 55 inch class (54.5 inches measured diagonally). The WT50 HDTVs feature the FULL HD 3D, IPS LED LCD Panel; Super High Speed 1920 Backlight Scanning for higher moving picture resolution during fast action scenes, and a smoothimage; 1080p resolution; VIERA Connect with built-in WiFi and Web Browser; a new Clear Panel Pro and Super-Narrow Metal Frame with Crescent Stand; 2D → 3D conversion; Social Networking TV function to allow users to access social network sites while simultaneously watching TV; Multitasking feature to switch between apps ; 3D Real Sound with 8-Train Speakers; Media Player, allows one to view digital images and HD video recorded on a SD Memory Card; DLNA; VIERA Touch Pad Controller; four HDMI terminals and three USB ports.
DT50 Series
The DT50 series, which provides Smart TV experience, includes two models, the TC-L47DT50, 47 inch class (47 inches measured diagonally) and the TC-L55DT50, 55 inch class (54.5 inches measured diagonally). Featuring the FULL HD 3D, IPS LED LCD Panel: Super High Speed 1920 Backlight Scanning for higher moving picture resolution during fast action scenes, the DT50 series includes VIERA Connect with built-in WiFi and Web Browser; a new Narrow Metal Frame; 1080p resolution; 2D → 3D conversion; Social Networking TV function; 3D Real Sound with 8-Train Speakers; Media Player; DLNA; four HDMI terminals; three USB ports.
ET5 Series
The three models that comprise the ET5 series feature FULL HD polarized 3D, IPS LED LCD Panel. The TC-L42ET5, 42 inch class (42 inches measured diagonally), TC-L47ET5, 47 inch class (47 inches measured diagonally); and TC-L55ET5, 55 inch class (54.6 inches measured diagonally) incorporate the IPS LED panel, 360 Backlight Scanning; VIERA Connect with built-in WiFi and Web Browser; 2D → 3D conversion; Social Networking TV function Media Player; DLNA; four HDMI and two USB terminals; a PC input. Furthermore, each of the ET5s comes with 4 pairs of polarized 3D glasses.
E50 Series
The E50 series features the IPS LED LCD Panel, a slim design and is available in three screen sizes, TC-L42E50, 42 inch class (42 inches measured diagonally); TC-L47E50, 47 inch class (47 inches measured diagonally); TC-L55E50, 55 inch class (54.6 inches measured diagonally). Featuring 360 Backlight Scanning; 1080p resolution; VIERA Connect; Social Networking TV function; DLNA; a PC input; four HDMI terminals; two USB ports.
E5 Series
The four LED HDTVs in the E5 series include the IPS LED LCD Panel, feature 1080p resolution; Online Movies a service that provides select Panasonic's IPTV functionality by adding five of the most popular movies to the TV's internet functionality; DLNA; four HDMI terminals; two USB ports and a PC input. The TC-L32E5, 32 inch class (31.5 inches measured diagonally), TC-L37E5, 37 inch class (36.5 inches measured diagonally), TC-L42E5 inches class (42 inches measured diagonally) and TC-L47E5 inches class (47 inches measured diagonally) are ready and both are Energy Star certified.
X5 Series
The TC-L32X5, 32 inch class (31.5 inches measured diagonally) is a720p IPS LED LCD Panel. The TV features Media Player; three HDMI terminals; one USB port and a PC input. The X5 series also offers the TC-L24X5, 1080p LED LCD Panel, 24 inch class (23.6 inches measured diagonally) featuring one HDMI terminal; one USB, a PC input and Game Mode.
U5 Series
The TC-L42U5, 42 inch class (42 inches measured diagonally) is one of two LCD HDTVs (cold cathode backlighting) in the 2012 collection. The TV is a 1080p model with three HDMI terminals; one USB port, a PC input and Game Mode.
C5 Series
The TC-L32C5, 32 inch class (31.5 inches measured diagonally) is a 720p, LCD HDTV (cold cathode backlighting) with two HDMI terminals; one USB port, a PC Input and Game Mode.
2012 SMART VIERA PLASMA HDTV Line-up
Continuing its history and tradition of producing Plasma HDTVs, Panasonic introduced the company's 2012 Smart VIERA line of HDTV Plasmas at the Consumer Electronics Show. The company wil loffer 17 new models, ranging in screen sizes from 42-inches to 65 inches.
New to select VIERA TVs is the inclusion of a browser as well as the addition of "3D Real Sound" with 8-Train Speakers to further enhance sound quality. Panasonic also introduced its latest generation of lightweight 3D glasses. Weighing only 27grams, the latest generation 3D glasses utilize Bluetooth technology and feature a rechargeable battery.
The 2012 VIERA HDTVs produce black levels that have consistently been recognized as among the best in the industry, super fast response time, internet apps, a new VIERA?s, clean and simple design.
The 2012 models employ NeoPlasma Black 2500 provide a crisp image even when the content shows very fast motion. The 2012 panel further reduces reflections and creates sharper pictures with higher contrast in brighter environments. In addition, a new panel structure and pre-discharge control technology contribute to an increased native contrast level. Additionally, all the 3D models include DLNA connections.
Panasonic?s Plasma Display panel feature a 100,000 hour life span.
The six VIERA Plasma series, VT50, GT50, ST50, UT50, XT50, U50, feature self illuminating panels with ultimate black levels, NeoPlasma echnologies (VT/GT/ST) providing a black filter with a higher efficiency panel that generates the best balance of black and white under brighter environments. The new Louver filter and new high performance panel result in improved external light shading, improved clarity and improved light transmittance. The 2012 models employ the NeoPlasma Black 2500 (VT/GT/ST/UT), a 6,220,800 pixel cells FULL local dimming, 24,576 steps of gradation technology (VT/GT) (previously only available in professional monitors), a new custom driver LSI and a fast switching phosphor panel on all of Panasonic?s 1080p 3D models.
Panasonic also continues its relationship with THX with six Full HD 3D Plasma HDTVs, certified in both 2D and 3D mode by the company founded by George Lucas.
VT50 Series
The VT50 series is the FULL HD 3D Plasma flagship series and is available in two screen sizes- the TC-P65VT50, 65-inch class (64.7 inches measured diagonally) and the TC-P55VT50, 55-inch class (55.1 inches measured diagonally). These two top of the line TVs offers FULL HD 3D; 1080p FULL HD resolution; Infinite Black Ultra Panel, Deep Black hues are achieved thanks to new and advanced pre-discharge technology; VIERA Connect with Web browser, and built-in Wi-Fi; 2500 FFD (Focused Field Drive); Fast Switching Phosphors; 2D → 3D conversion; 24,576 steps of gradation technology ;THX in both 2D and 3D modes; ISFccc Calibration Mode with Advanced Calibration. Calibrators adjust the detailed picture setting with the calibration software (CALMAN )provided by SpectraCal Inc.
Social Networking TV function to allow users to access social network sites while simultaneously watching TV; Multitasking feature to switch between apps ; 3D Real Sound with 8-Train Speakers; a new Louver Filter; a VIERA Touch Pad Controller; Bluetooth; DLNA; VIERA Link, a technology that utilizes HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) and allows a consumer to operate all VIERA Link compatible A/V components using only the TV?s remote control; Media Player, allows one to view digital photos and HD video recorded on a SD Memory Card and USB Memory Stick; four HDMI connections and three USB ports.
GT50 Series
The GT50 series includes four screen sizes ? the TC-P50GT50, 50-inch class (49.9 inches measured diagonally); TC-P55GT50, 55-inch class (55.1 inches measured diagonally); TC-P60GT50, 60-inch class (60.1 inches measured diagonally); TC-P65GT50, 65-inch class (64.7 inches measured diagonally). The series features FULL HD 3D; Infinite Black Pro Panel; VIERA Connect with Web browser and built-in Wi-Fi; 1080p FULL HD resolution; 2500 FFD (Focused Field Drive); Fast Switching Phosphors; 2D → 3D conversion; THX in both the 2D and 3D modes; 24,576 steps of gradation technology; Social Networking TV function; Multitasking; 3D Real Sound with 8 train speakers; Media Player; Bluetooth; DLNA; VIERA Link; four HDMI connections and three USB ports.
ST50 Series
The TC-P50ST50, 50-inch class (49.9 inches measured diagonally); the TC-P55ST50, 55-inch class (55.1 inches measured diagonally); the TC-P60ST30, 60-inch class (60.1 inches measured diagonally) and the TC-P65ST50, 65 inch class (64.7 inches measured diagonally) comprise the ST 50 series of FULL HD 3D VIERA HDTVs. The ST30 models include Infinite Black Pro Panel; VIERA Connect with Web browser and built-in Wi-Fi; 1080p FULL HD resolution; 2500 FFD (Focused Field Drive); Fast Switching Phosphors; 2D → 3D conversion; Social Networking TV function; 3D Real Sound with 8-Train Speakers; Media Player; Bluetooth; DLNA; VIERA Link, three HDMI connections and two USB ports.
UT50 Series
There are four screen sizes in the UT50 series ? the TC-P42UT50, 42 inch class (41.6 inches measured diagonally); TC-P50UT50, 50 inch class (49.9 inches measured diagonally); TC-P55UT50, 55 inch class (55.1 inches measured diagonally); TC-P60UT50, 60 inch class (60.1 inches measured diagonally). All offer FULL HD 3D; 1080p FULL HD resolution; VIERA Connect (Wi-Fi ready); 2500 FFD (Focused Field Drive); Fast Switching Phosphors; 2D → 3D conversion; Social Networking TV function; Media Player; Bluetooth; DLNA; VIERA Link; two HDMI connections and two USB ports.
XT50 Series
The XT50 series is an affordable 3D solution with Online Movies feature, a service that provides select Panasonic's IPTV functionality by adding five of the most popular movies to the TV's internet functionality. The TC-P42XT50, 42 inch class (41.6 inches measured diagonally) and the TC-P50XT50, 50 inch class (49.9 inches measured diagonally) produce 720p resolution and features Online Movies, a service that provides select Panasonic's IPTV functionality by adding five of the most popular movies to the TV's internet functionality; 2D → 3D conversion; 600Hz Sub-field Drive; Bluetooth; Media Player; DLNA; VIERA Link; two HDMI and two USB connections.
U50 Series
The TC-P50U50, 50 inch class (49.9 inches measured diagonally) is the lone non-3D in this year's HDTV Plasma model line-up. The model features 1080p FULL HD resolution; Fast Switching Phosphors, Media Player; 600Hz Sub-Field Drive ;Game Mode ;two HDMI connections and one USB port.
2012 Blu-ray Disc Player Line-up
Panasonic expanded its Blu-ray Disc player lineup with four new Full HD 3D models ? the DMP-BBT01, DMP-BDT500, DMP-BDT320, DMP-BDT220, and two 2D Blu-ray Disc players ? DMP-BD87 and the DMP-BD77. All four of the 3D models include Panasonic's proprietary IPTV platform, VIERA Connect, while the 2D models feature IP VOD, a service that offers a selection of such sites as Netflix, Vudu, CinemaNow and YouTube.
The Full HD 3D Blu-ray Disc players ? BBT01; BDT500, BDT320 and BDT 220 feature an improved UniPhier chip processor, 24p output for VOD, an expanded VIERA Connect functionality, and FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec),192kHz/32bit Audio DAC (not available on the DMP-BBT01), Smartphone remote control capability, a new touchpad remote control - available on DMP-BBT01, DMP-BDT500, DMP-BDT320 - 2D-to-3D up-conversion, which can convert 2D images from VIERA Connect, DVDs and Blu-ray discs into 3D with natural depth perception, a new slim design and a unique slot-in drive that is found in two of the models- the DMP-BBT01 and the DMP-BDT320. In addition, the DMP-BBT01 introduces a new design concept - the player comes with a stand and can be operated either vertically, or horizontally.
The DMP-BDT500, DMP-BDT320 and the DMP-BDT220 utilize a 192kHz/32bit audio DAC, while the BDT500 includes high grade audio parts ? gold plated terminals, high grade electric capacitor, insulator - to reproduce audio content that is faithful to the original. The BDT500 provides for 7.1 channel output and includes twin HDMI outputs, allowing one to be dedicated for audio output. Audio is further improved via Panasonic?s clock control technology that reduces jitter during HDMI transmission, thereby lessening noise and delivering pure sound. Furthermore, the 2012 players are compatible with a variety of formats such as the lossless audio codec FLAC, an audio format similar to MP3, but lossless, meaning that audio is compressed in FLAC without any loss in quality. In addition, the Blu-ray Disc players simulate the warm, comforting sound of tube amplifiers with six distinct sound environments.
The entire 2012 line features DLNA for easy connection to other DLNA equipped products, VIERA Link - provides connectivity to other VIERA Link compatible products and NAS compatibility. This year's players are also compatible with the NTFS format HDD. Five of the six Blu-ray Disc players provide built-in WiFi, while the DMP-BD77 is wireless ready. Also new this year is the ability to use any Smartphone as the remote control.
